The Maharashtra State Urdu Sahitya Academy’s three-day Bahar-e-Urdu celebrations, marking its golden jubilee, opened to a packed audience at Dome, SVP Stadium, Worli, on October 6.
**Cultural Extravaganza**
The evening began with a Qaumi Yakjehti Geet performed by Farkhanda and the Kohinoor Music Academy, setting a vibrant tone for the festivities. This was followed by Mujeeb Khan’s Urdu theatrical presentation, ‘Ishq Jale To Jale Aisa’, inspired by the verses of renowned poet and lyricist Sahir Ludhianvi.
**Honoring Dignitaries**
The event saw felicitations by key personalities: Ruchesh Jaivanshi, Secretary of the Minority Development Department, felicitated the Hon. Minister of Minority Development. Commissioner Pratibha Ingle honored Sana Malik for her contributions. Eminent writers Ansari Nafees Jaleel and Kamil Shaikh, editor and writer of Marathi literature, were also recognized. The presence of celebrated poet and lyricist Javed Akhtar added grandeur to the occasion.
**Mushaira and Laughter**
The audience was treated to a lively mushaira featuring poets Rajesh Reddy, Obaid Azam Azmi, Shakeel Azmi, Mehshar Afridi, Qamar Siddiqui, and Shikha Awdhesh. Additionally, renowned humourist Surender Sharma kept the crowd entertained with his signature wit and humor.
**Urdu in Cinema**
A panel discussion titled “Filmon Mein Urdu” explored Urdu’s poetic influence on Indian cinema. The panel included celebrated personalities Sachin Pilgaonkar, Rumy Jafry, and Syed Qadri, with the session moderated by Shekhar Suman. The discussion highlighted the timeless connection between Urdu poetry and Bollywood storytelling.
**Interactive Session with Icons**
One of the highlights of the evening was a lively interactive session with Javed Akhtar and Rumy Jafry. Their engaging conversations and insights drew thunderous applause from the audience, underscoring the enduring resonance of Urdu in Indian storytelling.
**Hosts and Conclusion**
The entire event was skillfully hosted by Shekhar Suman and Ali Asgar. The celebrations concluded with the national anthem, encapsulating the spirit of unity and cultural pride.
The Bahar-e-Urdu festival will continue until October 8, promising more cultural programs and literary celebrations in the days ahead.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/bahar-e-urdu-golden-jubilee-maharashtras-three-day-urdu-festival-opens-to-enthusiastic-crowds-in-mumbai-see-pics
